Cape Town - Everton manager Roberto Martinez has confirmed midfielder Tom Cleverley will be out for six to eight weeks.
Cleverley sustained ankle ligament damage during his side's 0-0 draw at Tottenham Hotspur.
There were initial fears that the England international may have fractured his bone following a challenge from Eric Dier but Martinez told reporters Cleverley would miss "six to eight weeks".
"Knowing Tom and how fit and strong he is, we're looking at a six-week period," the 42-year-old added.
Cleverley joined the Toffees from Manchester United after spending the last season on loan to Aston Villa.
Everton host Chelsea at Goodison Park on Saturday.
The match kicks off at 13:45.